A new autumnal twist on the classic iced matcha is captivating Britons across social media platforms. The banana bread iced matcha, which first gained popularity last year, has made a triumphant return and is set to become the beverage of 2025 according to lifestyle experts.
The Viral Drink Taking Over Autumn
Despite the cooling temperatures, there's no need to abandon refreshing iced beverages just yet. Matcha, the distinctive Japanese green tea, continues to dominate the UK drinks scene, though its unique flavour profile can sometimes require an acquired taste. This is where creative syrups come into play, transforming the traditional matcha experience into something extraordinary.
Blank Street, a prominent beverage chain, recently relaunched their viral banana bread matcha alongside other seasonal favourites like carrot cake and apple butter variations. However, with prices reaching nearly £5 per drink, daily purchases can quickly become an expensive habit.
How to Create Your Homemade Version
TikTok content creator Olivia Adriance originally shared her banana bread matcha recipe last autumn, but with its recent resurgence in popularity, now presents the perfect opportunity to try it yourself. The recipe features a homemade banana syrup that provides sweet, spiced notes that complement the fresh matcha flavour beautifully.
Olivia described the finished drink as tasting 'so good', noting that the subtle banana bread flavour works 'really well' with the matcha base. The preparation process is straightforward and significantly more budget-friendly than café alternatives.
The Complete Banana Bread Matcha Recipe
Ingredients for the banana bread syrup:
- One large ripe banana, mashed
- One and a half cups water
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- Two cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- One teaspoon vanilla
Ingredients for the matcha latte:
- 3 oz water
- One teaspoon matcha powder
- Half cup milk of choice
- Ice (optional)
Method:
To prepare the banana bread syrup, combine the mashed banana, water, maple syrup, cinnamon sticks and nutmeg in a small saucepan over low heat. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve and transfer the resulting banana bread syrup into an airtight glass jar. This syrup can be refrigerated and used for up to one week.
For the matcha preparation, pour water into a small glass or bowl. Sift the matcha powder through a fine mesh sieve to eliminate any lumps. Whisk the matcha into the water using a front-to-back motion until the surface becomes slightly frothy.
Fill your chosen glass with ice if making an iced version, or use hot water for a warm latte. Pour in the prepared matcha and top with your preferred milk. Add two tablespoons of the banana bread syrup, stir well, and enjoy your homemade autumnal treat.
This viral drink combination offers the perfect way to embrace seasonal flavours while continuing to enjoy your matcha fixation throughout the cooler months.
